Match Preview: v Geelong Cats

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On paper this match looks like going the way of Geelong, but since coming back from the bye a month ago, the Brisbane Lions have been more than feisty and should give the Cats a test.

Chris Fagan's men have won two of their past four matches – including Sunday's incredible last quarter revival to down Essendon – and shown good signs in losses to Port Adelaide and GWS. Dayne Zorko and Tom Rockliff have been prolific in the midfield, while the Lions' young talent, led by Eric Hipwood, Harris Andrews and Hugh McCluggage, has added some class and excitement.

Geelong is coming off a draw to the Giants and spent the week on the Gold Coast rather than returning to Victoria. They possess more weapons but don't be shocked if the Lions give some cheek.

3. The Lions are looking for consecutive wins for the first time since rounds six and seven in 2015, while Geelong is travelling interstate for a second consecutive week for the first time since rounds 16 and 17 in 2011.

4. Lewy Taylor continued his terrific season last week with 24 disposals and three goal assists. He has jumped almost 50 spots to 166th overall in the AFL Official Player Ratings.

IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR …Rhys Mathieson

With Dayne Beams out injured, Rhys Mathieson has had to take on a much bigger role for the Lions of late. After picking up a career-high 32 disposals against the GIANTS two weeks ago, Mathieson had a slightly quieter game against Essendon last weekend. With Joel Selwood almost certain to return for the Cats on Saturday, expect a big match from Mathieson who had a feisty run-in with the Cats skipper the last two the sides met.

The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the AFL or its clubs